Plantar fasciitis isn’t something that should be taken lightly. Many conditions that cause plantar fasciitis may worsen if left untreated. You need a podiatrist with superb training and extensive experience with plantar fasciitis treatment who will take the time to professionally diagnose your foot condition and prescribe treatment to ensure fast and correct healing.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis develops over time from small rips and tears in the foot. Over time repeated stress on your plantar fascia (tissue supporting the arch on the bottom of your foot) can make it weak, swollen, and irritated resulting in pain when you stand or walk.
Plantar fasciitis is common in people who are on their feet for long periods of time like athletes and soldiers. Common causes include:
- Feet not pointing straight forward when walking.
- Flat feet or severely high arches.
- Walking, standing, or running on hard surfaces for long periods of time.
- Being overweight or having tight Achilles tendons or calf muscles.
- Wearing shoes that don’t fit well or do not support your feet properly.
If you are experiencing pain in the bottom of your foot it may be due to plantar fasciitis, however a professional consultation from a licensed podiatrist specialized in plantar fasciitis is recommended to be sure.
Signs You May Have Plantar Fasciitis
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is most commonly found in middle-aged men and women and can occur in either or both feet. It is the most common form of heel pain and is caused by straining the ligament (plantar fascia) that extends from your heel to your toes on the bottom of your foot. The repeated strain of this ligament causes many small tears that can lead to pain and swelling.
Watch Dr. Verville explain whether foot injuries heal on their own.
Let Us Know How We Can Help You
Contact us if you have any questions, or if you would like to request a consultation.
Plantar Fasciitis Diagnosis
If you are having swelling or stiffness in your ankle or other joints in and around your foot that lasts for more than two weeks, we recommend that you make an appointment to see Board Certified Dr. Verville at her Frisco office.
Dr. Verville will determine the level of severity of your plantar fasciitis based on your answers to questions during your consultation and the results of your physical examination. During your physical exam, Dr. Verville will:
- Determine the location of the pain, tenderness, and swelling.
- Note your degree of flexibility, alignment, and range of motion.
- Test the reflexes of your foot and ankle.
Dr. Verville will begin a course of treatment immediately after your diagnosis and evaluate the most effective options for your specific plantar fasciitis condition.
Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis
Options for treatment may vary based on the length of time the condition has been present and the severity of the condition at the time of diagnosis. While treatment will vary from person to person, plantar fasciitis is commonly treated with:
- Physical therapy to improve your foot’s range of motion.
- Proper exercise to rebuild mobility and strength.
- Medication for pain relief and inflammation.
In most cases of foot pain, stiffness, and immobility, several treatments may be recommended for optimal results. More severe conditions may require surgery and rehabilitation to repair damage to joints.
If you have painful plantar fasciitis, call our Frisco office at (214) 385-8822 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Verville.
